Skates appointed Chair to oversee monitoring of EU funds in Wales

CLWYD SOUTH AM KEN SKATES has been appointed the new Chair of a committee which oversees the monitoring of European Structural Funds in Wales.

The All Wales Programme Monitoring Committee (PMC) is responsible for monitoring the effective delivery of the £1.9bn Convergence and Regional Competitiveness and Employment (ERDF and ESF) programmes 2007–2013, as well as any future EU programmes during 2014-2020 in Wales.

He will now lead the PMC which comprises 16 members drawn on a representative basis from partners and statutory bodies, and five members selected on merit via the public appointments process. The composition represents a balance of interests across Wales, as well as relevant expertise, to ensure effective delivery of the programmes for the benefit of businesses, people and communities across Wales.

Mr Skates will also chair the European Programmes Partnership Forum (EPPF) – a key stakeholder group that provides strategic direction on the development of 2014-2020 EU programmes in Wales.

The EPPF is made up of members from across the private, public and third sectors. The Forum advises on how best to harness European funds to deliver on Welsh Government and EU priorities for smart, sustainable and inclusive growth.

Appointing Mr Skates, First Minister of Wales, Carwyn Jones, said:

“I attach great importance to the role of the All Wales Programme Monitoring Committee and the work of the Chair and Members. In partnership with the Welsh Government, they all play an important role in building upon the success of the current and previous programmes, paving the way for the future programmes during 2014-2020 and continuing to support our policies for sustainable growth and jobs.”

CLWYD SOUTH AM KEN SKATES said:

“I am delighted to be appointed as Chair of the All-Wales PMC and I’m committed to ensuring the effective implementation of the current Structural Funds programmes in Wales. I also look forward to chairing the European Programmes Partnership Forum as we prepare for the successful launch of the next programme period during 2014-2020.”